The brown recluse, also called the fiddle back spider, is a poisonous spider found in several regions of the United States. The most common place to find these spiders is the south central areas of the U.S., according to Medline Plus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. A brown recluse spider bite isn't always deadly and, as a matter of fact, death is unlikely from a bite. There are some who are more at risk than others, such as small children, those who are ill, and the elderly. Medical attention should be sought if the symptoms from the bite are severe or worsening.
Ice and Elevation Immediately Afterward
After calling 911, clean the area that has been bitten thoroughly with soap and water. Wrap ice in a towel and hold on the area for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off. Elevate the bitten area above the heart if at all possible. This helps to reduce the circulation of the venom through the blood. According to Drugs.com, this also helps to reduce the redness and swelling of the area.
Antibiotics
According to Drugs.com, antibiotics may be given to treat or prevent infection for a brown recluse spider bite. Bacteria can be introduced into the body through the wound and can lead to an increase in tissue damage. By administering antibiotics before an infection occurs, the wound will heal better and complications such as a staph infection will be avoided.
Antihistamines
Most brown recluse bites cause severe itching at the site of the bite, so antihistamines are administered to relieve this problem. According to FamilyDoctor.org, the website of the American Academy of Family Physicians, antihistamines work by keeping histamines produced by the immune system from attaching to the cells, which causes the itch.
Antivenin
Antivenin is used to counteract the effects of the toxin in the blood caused by the brown recluse bite, states Drugs.com. According to DermNet NZ, this medication is only used in the most severe cases of toxicity due to spider bite, or when the victim is in a high risk category. Only a doctor is allowed to administer antivenin, and it is usually only given in a hospital setting.
Steroids
Steroids are used to reduce the inflammation caused by the brown recluse bite. These drugs also promote healing in the body, reports Drugs.com, which allows for a shorter recovery time.
Tetanus Shot
A tetanus shot is typically given when someone is bitten by a brown recluse. Tetanus occurs when a certain bacteria enter the bloodstream from a wound that has been contaminated, and it attacks the nerves of the body. This disease is often fatal, but is rare in the United States.
